Samuel DiFazio

Samuel's Story

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Samuel DiFazio, 102, of Oak Street, Danville, passed away at his residence on Thursday, Feb. 8, 2018.
He was born Oct. 3, 1915, in Brooklyn, N.Y., a son of the late Amadeo and Sebastiana (Salamone) DiFazio. He was married to Eleanor (Cavagnaro) for 54 loving years, faithfully caring for her after she suffered a stroke, until her death in 1994.

During World War II, Samuel proudly served his country as a member of the 4th Infantry Division, 12th Regiment of the Army from September 1943 to March 1946. He participated in the Normandy Invasion of France, landing on Utah Beach, and received a Bronze Star for exemplary service.

Samuel worked at the registry window of the General Post Office in Brooklyn for more than 30 years.
He was a longtime member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, the Knights of Columbus, the VFW, and the American Legion Post 40.
Samuel enjoyed growing vegetables and flowers in his garden and cooking Sunday dinner for his grandchildren.

He is survived by his daughter, Ellen Matragrano and her husband, Andrew, of Danville; four grandchildren and their spouses, Theresa, Amanda and Tommy Messbauer, Mary, and Thomas and Cara Matragrano; three great-grandchildren, Liliana, Lucas, and Ellie; and his compassionate caregiver for six and one-half years, Margaret Ali.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Eleanor "Ellie"; and four sisters, Frances, Josephine, Rose, and Gilda.

Friends will be received from 9:30 to 10:45 a.m. Thursday in St. Hubert Chapel, located in the annex of St. Joseph Church, 18 Center St., Danville, where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11, with the Rev. James E. Lease as celebrant.
Burial will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery, with a presentation of Military Funeral Honors accorded by American Legion Post 40.

The family will provide flowers. Contributions in Samuel's memory can be made to a charity of the donor's choosing.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Brady Funeral Home of Danville.
Please share online condolences at BradyFuneralHome.com.